Three Health Reset Tips for Spring
Do spring blossoms and warmer weather have you inspired to freshen up your health? Let’s learn how better hydration, plant-based fiber and better sleep hygiene will leave you feeling energized this season.
- Hydrate: Stay hydrated! Drinking water is the body’s essential nutrient. Water is a requirement for just about every process and makes up 2/3 of the human body. Getting outside and being more active in the warmer months can cause dehydration. Diuretics, caffeine and alcohol also play a part in dehydrating the body. Aim to drink 6-8 glasses of water a day as a minimum, and more if you are living in a warm climate. Pure, filtered water is best. Try eating more hydrating foods like organic fruits and vegetables to replenish minerals.
- Eat More Fiber: Less than 3 % of American’s are getting their 25-30 grams of daily recommended fiber. Getting enough fiber is a key element to good gut health. Plant-based foods consist of both soluble and insoluble fibers, and both work in harmony to promote a healthy digestive system. As your system adjusts to more fiber, bloating and mild digestive discomfort can happen. Start slowly! Adding a little bit of good fat with meals can be helpful, such as a tablespoon of Manna Butter on top of your oatmeal in the morning.
Researchers have found that soluble fibers can help lower cholesterol and help with blood sugar regulation. Examples of soluble fibers include oats, lentils, beans, fruits like apples and blueberries. Insoluble fibers move through the body undigested, helping regularity. Examples to add to your diet are whole grains like our fully-sprouted Manna Breads, legumes and vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers and tomatoes.
- Better Sleep: There is no better feeling than a good night’s sleep! But it is normal for everyone to experience poor sleep quality from time to time. A healthy circadian rhythm depends on two systems: light and temperature. Getting outside within an hour of waking up and an hour of sunset is an easy way to help set your circadian clock. Be mindful not to exercise too close to bedtime to maintain a lower body temperature before bed. Your core temperature must drop in order to fall asleep, so a cool room can also be helpful.
Incorporating sleep nutrients in your diet can also help to relax the body and help boost serotonin, the precursor to melatonin which helps us feel drowsy. Try including whole grains with dinner. Magnesium is another important sleep nutrient due to its ability to relax your muscles and nervous system. Tree nuts and seeds are some of the best sources! A slice of Manna Bread with Amaretto Almond Manna Butter is a great way to optimize your sleep nutrition.
